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Community Corner

A Cool Gift for Active Military: 5 Things You Should Know for Friday, July 1

It's the beginning of an action-packed weekend in St. Charles, all in celebration of America's independence.

The City of St. Charles has raised the fees for environmental waste services, but don't let that get you down. There are plenty of free events to enjoy this weekend.

Ticket sales will start for Steel Beam Theatre's 11th season. There are some great performances ahead of us; buy your tickets now to avoid the last-minute rush.

Here are St. Charles Patch's 5 favorite things you should know for today:

Find out what's happening in St. Charleswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

1. In honor of Independence Day, active members of the United States Military will be admitted free to  and . Accompanying family members will receive the twilight rate discount— admission of $5 at Otter Cove and $3 at Swanson Pool.

For more information on the St. Charles Park District's aquatic centers rates and hours, click here

Find out what's happening in St. Charleswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

2. The City of St. Charles refuse, recycling, and yard-waste fees will increase today. Refuse collection is provided by Veolia Environmental Services.

To view the price increases for refuse bags, toters, and stickers, click here

3. Lamplight Equestrian Center in Wayne will host an Eventing Derby today and throughout the weekend. Spectators can enjoy various jumping and endurance events by riders of ranging skill levels, including a Dressage test. 

Lamplight is among the premier showplace for equestrian skill in the Chicago area, with world-class facilities that host the highest quality horse shows and events, including Pan-AM and Olympic selection trials.

4. Brunswick bowling centers in the area will offer free bowling all weekend. Families can enjoy one free game of bowling per day from Friday to Sunday.

For more information and to find your nearest location, click here.

5. Ticket sales for 's 11th season will start today. The 11th season opens Sept. 9 with The Fantastics. Other performances include Scrooge, The Musical, The Glass Menagerie and Crimes of the Heart. 

Steel Beam is a non-profit theatre company giving the Fox Valley high-quality performances at an affordable price. For schedule and ticket information, click here.

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